The Gimlet is a classic cocktail that perfectly balances the sharpness of gin with the tangy freshness of lime juice. This refreshing drink is simple to make and is a timeless choice for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
While most of the ingredients for a Gimlet are quite common, you may need to pick up some fresh lime juice if you don't have limes at home. Additionally, if you don't have simple syrup, you can easily make it by dissolving equal parts sugar and water.

Ingredients for Gimlet Recipe
Gin: A distilled alcoholic beverage that forms the base of the Gimlet. It adds a botanical and slightly juniper flavor.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a tangy and zesty flavor to the cocktail, balancing the sweetness of the syrup.
Simple syrup: A mixture of sugar and water that adds sweetness to the drink, balancing the tartness of the lime juice.
Technique Tip for Making a Gimlet
When making a gimlet, ensure your gin is of high quality, as it is the star of the cocktail. Freshly squeezed lime juice is crucial for a bright, zesty flavor. To make a perfectly balanced simple syrup, use a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water, heating until the sugar dissolves completely. Shake the mixture vigorously with ice to achieve a well-chilled and slightly diluted drink, enhancing the overall texture and taste.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
gin - Substitute with vodka: Vodka has a neutral flavor that allows the lime and simple syrup to shine, making it a good alternative to gin.
gin - Substitute with white rum: White rum adds a slightly sweet and tropical note, creating a different but enjoyable twist on the classic gimlet.
fresh lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it will slightly alter the taste profile.
fresh lime juice - Substitute with bottled lime juice: Bottled lime juice is a convenient alternative, though it may lack the freshness and brightness of freshly squeezed lime juice.
simple syrup - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is a natural sweetener that dissolves easily and adds a mild, honey-like flavor.
simple syrup - Substitute with honey syrup: Honey syrup (honey mixed with water) adds a floral sweetness and can be used in the same proportions as simple syrup.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to a Gimlet
How to Store or Freeze a Gimlet
- To store your Gimlet mixture, transfer it to an airtight container or a glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain its fresh lime juice flavor and crispness.
- If you want to prepare the Gimlet in advance for a party, mix the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup together and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply shake with ice and strain into glasses.
- For freezing, pour the Gimlet mixture into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to enjoy a quick Gimlet by simply thawing the cubes and shaking with ice.
- When freezing, ensure the Gimlet mixture is well-sealed to prevent any freezer odors from affecting the taste. Use within 1 month for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a slushy Gimlet, blend the frozen cubes with a bit of ice until you achieve the desired consistency. This is a refreshing twist, especially on hot days.
- Always label your containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness and avoid any mix-ups in your fridge or freezer.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the leftover Gimlet into a cocktail shaker filled with fresh ice.
- Shake well to re-chill the mixture.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a fresh lime wheel, if desired.
Best Tools for Making a Gimlet
Cocktail shaker: A container used to mix the ingredients with ice, ensuring they are well-chilled and combined.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to accurately measure the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
Strainer: A tool used to strain the mixed cocktail into the glass, keeping the ice and any pulp out.
Cocktail glass: The glass in which the gimlet is served, typically chilled to keep the drink cold.
Ice: Used in the cocktail shaker to chill the ingredients as they are mixed.
Lime wheel: Optional garnish to add a decorative touch to the finished cocktail.
How to Save Time on Making a Gimlet
Pre-mix ingredients: Combine gin, lime juice, and simple syrup in a bottle and store in the fridge for quick access.
Use bottled lime juice: Opt for high-quality bottled lime juice to save time on squeezing fresh limes.
Batch preparation: Make a larger batch of simple syrup and store it in the fridge for future use.
Chill glasses in advance: Keep your cocktail glasses in the freezer so they are ready to use.
Pre-cut garnishes: Slice lime wheels ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.

Gimlet Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin
- 0.75 oz Fresh lime juice
- 0.75 oz Simple syrup
Instructions
- 1. Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- 2. Shake well until chilled.
- 3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- 4. Garnish with a lime wheel, if desired.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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